Thoughts on Electrical-Stimulation Abdominal Belts

Many people are going gaga over anything that trims and tones their physique. While getting obsessed with health and fitness is not at all bad, it may lead enthusiasts to buy all sorts of advice just to attain their goals. For the population that want fast results, they drool over electric belts or muscle stimulators.

An electrical-stimulation abdominal belt is a type of electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) device that uses induction of muscle contraction via electric impulses. The impulses are delivered through electrodes on the skin nearest to the muscles to be stimulated, (e.g. the abs). This process is also called "neuromuscular electrical stimulation" or "electromyostimulation." EMS however is different from transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS), or the application of electric current in pain therapy.

The popularity of EMS devices is driven by the concept that they can keep specific muscles toned without having to exert much effort. In most instances, an individual only has to wear the gadget, turn it on, and then go about his or her usual routines, say cook a meal or watch a video.

An EMS gadget like the electrical belt is both helpful for training and therapy. It is even more useful for rehabilitative medicine as in the case of muscle and bone damage where prevention of disuse muscle atrophy is required. However, if people use it solely for trimming down, they need to really think again. Manufacturers and experts would strongly advise use of the device together with actual exercise and nutrition plan to get desirable results. This suggests that EMS devices may not actually be used independently for bodybuilding and exercising. So if you own an electric belt, do not be fooled by the hype of effortless results.

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